Telok Ayer Food Guide: Affordable KBBQ and More

Singapore is full of some of the world’s finest and most unique delicacies, so it’s no wonder that food culture is so salient here. There isn’t a street in Singapore that doesn’t have at least a halfway decent eatery around the corner, and Telok Ayer is no different. 

In fact, we would go as far as to say Telok Ayer is a mecca of good food.  Not sure about what to eat in Telok Ayer? No worries, here’s our nifty guide on the best eats in the area! 

Also read: 6 Cheap Food Places in Town to Avoid Burning A Hole in Your Wallet During Lunchtime

1. The Flying Squirrel

If the name doesn’t draw you in then the food and vibes certainly will! The Flying Squirrel is a quaint hole-in-the-wall cafe. They specialise in Japanese inspired foods, including handmade sushi and fresh salmon sashimi! The best part is everything comes with a unique twist — Tuna & Avocado seaweed tacos, anyone? 

If you’re a more budget-conscious foodie then The Flying Squirrel is perfect for you! They offer a lunch menu that comes in a range of prices and even includes miso soup and salad. Talk about a proper Japanese affair!

Address: 92 Amoy Street, #01-02, Singapore 069911

2. Shukuu Izakaya

One step into Shukuu Izakaya and guests will be blown away by its vibrancy and liveliness. The walls of the establishment were personally painted by the owner himself, giving it an unmistakable Nihon feel. Additionally, this little slice of Japan boasts a phenomenal artisanal sake collection with their very own in-house sake sommeliers that will personally recommend the best for your meal. 

Even if you’re not a fan of sake,  Shukuu Izakaya will impress you with their amazing repertoire of food. From bluefin tuna to sliced beef tongue, there’s little you would not enjoy from their extensive menu. 

Address: 8 Stanley Street, Singapore 068727

Also read: 8 Must-Try Japanese Street Food in Kyoto

3. Moosehead

Founded by a father-son duo, Moosehead Kitchen – Bar has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere and a menu that begs to be savoured. Look out for their Pork Jowl, a consistent crowd-pleaser that promises to melt in your mouth. 

Make sure to save room for dessert because their Pistachio cake is not one to be overlooked easily. Nutty pistachios paired with refreshing yuzu creme and honey drizzle makes for a well-balanced dessert you do not want to miss!

Address: 110 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068579

4. Kafe Samsa

Hidden inside one of the most well-known restaurants in Telok Ayer is a food gem you cannot miss. Located within The Nomads, Kafe Samsa is a cafe that serves up various types of savoury and sweet samsas alongside a bunch of different house-made jars of butter and jams.

Originating from Central Asia, samsas are buttery baked pastries that will fill not just your stomach but your soul as well. From chicken to beef to lamb, there’s no better place in Singapore to get an authentic taste of this hearty, herbaceous pastry than at Kafe Samsa!

Address: 70 Telok Ayer, #01-01, Singapore 048462

5. Sarnies

Now, if there’s one food spot in Telok Ayer everyone and their mother is familiar with, it’s Sarnies. Founded by Aussie Ben Lee, this well-loved cafe boasts some of the best coffee and sandwiches in town. 

If a good cuppa and a filling sandwich aren’t exactly up your alley, then you can opt for their salads and pasta. Either way, you can’t go wrong at Sarnies!

Address: 136 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068601

6. Wang Dae Bak Korean BBQ Restaurant

If you’re on the hunt for authentic Korean food, then head on down to Telok Ayer. Wang Dae Bak Korean BBQ Restaurant will not disappoint! With the mouth-watering smell of barbecuing meat wafting from the confines of the restaurant and the way they offer their guests bibs, you know they mean serious business. 

Wang Dae Bak offers a different menu for lunch and dinner, but we suggest you try their dinner sets (S$49) because it’s frankly life-changing. There’s no going back after you’ve had a taste of their prime ribs and marinated pork shoulder. To top it all off, they serve steamed eggs on the edges of the BBQ pit and offer REFILLABLE appetisers. 

Address: 98 Amoy Street, Singapore 069918

Also read: 10 Korean BBQ Buffets in Singapore: The Ultimate Restaurant List

7. fȳr

Headed by Chef Teddy Chung, fȳr is an affordable modern grill restaurant in Telok Ayer that serves up unique and well thought out dishes. Their menu is an amalgamation of French cooking techniques, contemporary Asian influences and their signature methods of cooking with fire, be it grilling, searing, smoking or barbequing. 

A set meal at fȳr would cost you around S$26++ for a two-course meal and S$30++ for a three-course meal. With the calibre of chefs cooking your meal and the refined menu items on offer put into consideration, the price is more than fair. In fact, we would go as far as to say their prices are a steal! 

Address: 19 Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069619

8. Porkypine

Porkypine is one of the few places in Singapore where you can get your hands on a proper Cubano. And really, who wouldn’t want a sandwich loaded with shaved mojo pork or ham, mustard and mayo? This hole-in-the-wall deli shop has a single-minded focus on serving the ultimate Cubano and their dedication certainly shows!

The slices of mojo pork are slow-cooked for 24 hours and are simply melt-in-your-mouth tender. Sandwiched between double fermented Cuban buns and topped with generous loads of pickles,  Emmental cheese and mustard, it’s truly worth its somewhat pricey S$18 price tag. 

Address: 112 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068581

Also read: 10 Best Bakeries in Singapore That Everyone Should Try in Their Lifetime

Telok Ayer is full of hole-in-the-wall restaurants that have unshakably loyal followings, so it’s worth a visit just for the food alone. Grab a friend or five and add these food spots to your bucket list because you definitely don’t want to miss such a wild gastronomic adventure.